Australia's inflation climbs to 4.3% as fuel costs surge

Australian inflation accelerated from 4% to 4.3%, driven largely by a 9.4% jump in fuel costs in September, official statistics show. Petrol and diesel were 24% dearer than a year earlier. Treasurer Jim Chalmers blames the Middle East conflict, while RBA governor Michele Bullock said overseas developments complicate returning inflation to 2.5%. A rate rise next week looks almost certain.